COMMON'S "HELL ON WHEELS" SET FOR SEASON 2

I was recently informed that AMC is set to announce a second season of its Old West drama "Hell on Wheels." Sources told The Hollywood Reporter that the cable network is expected to announce a formal renewal of the freshman series starring Anson Mount and Common very soon.

The program, which revolves around the building of the first transcontinental railroad, became AMC's second-highest original series premiere when it launched in November behind the net's zombie hit "The Walking Dead," drawing 4.4 million total viewers and an impressive 2.4 million in the key 18-49 demographic.

The western now marks the fifth of six original series to stretch beyond their first seasons as AMC continues to find success with scripted fare, joining "Walking Dead," "Mad Men," "Breaking Bad" and "The Killing." In addition, the series has proven a valuable property internationally.

I also just learned that the "Hell on Wheels" season 1 finale is set for Jan. 15.